Should Drinking Water Contain Minerals?

Taking a Closer Look at Truly Healthy Drinking Water

Millions of people are paying extra attention to their health these days and with good reason. Sicknesses abound, and a continually growing number of medical issues seem to be coming to light. For quite some time, studies have shown that drinking water is one of the simplest and most effective ways of promoting good health. Of course, not all water is created equally. Many reports indicate water that contains ample amounts of minerals can foster health in several ways.

Why Is Water So Beneficial?

Water is beneficial for numerous reasons. It’s no secret that the human body is mostly made of water; in fact, it constitutes about 60 percent of our bodies on average. Our brains and hearts are almost 75 percent water, and this vital fluid comprises almost 80 percent of our muscles and kidneys. At the same time, our lungs are more than 80 percent water, and it makes up more than 60 percent of our skin. Despite their solid, rigid composition, even our bones contain about 30 percent H₂O.

Without adequate amounts of water, our bodies can undergo certain negative changes. In most cases, the process begins with dry mouth and unexplained severe headaches. From there, our skin starts to appear dull, dry, and less flexible.

It’s also common to experience extreme fatigue, lack of mental clarity, and irritability when you’re not taking in enough water. From a long-term perspective, not consuming enough water can lead to weight gain and an increased risk of heart and kidney issues among other problems.

We need water to survive without a doubt. Though all beverages are mainly made of water, many can contribute to dehydration and all the health issues it causes rather than detracting from them. Despite having high water content, they also contain sweeteners, artificial flavors, added colors, and other ingredients that can actually cause dehydration.

Should Drinking Water Contain Minerals?

Drinking water should contain certain amounts of specific minerals. They’re added to public water supplies as a general rule to help reduce the likelihood of deficiencies. Mineral water gives us a boost of many of those nutrients as well. Some of the essential minerals you’ll find in drinking water are zinc, sodium, potassium, magnesium, iron, calcium, and bicarbonate. Each one has a distinct list of health benefits.

Zinc

One of zinc’s primary roles in the body is promoting protein and DNA production. That makes it crucial for cellular regeneration, growth, and development. It helps keep the skin strong and more youthful as well. Because of its role in cell growth and restoration, it’s also essential for wound healing and recovery following injuries and invasive surgeries.

Zinc is vital for immune health as well. It fosters the production of immune cells and strengthens those cells, so they respond more readily to infections. This mineral can also reduce the rate of cellular degradation to help protect us against environmental stressors and premature aging.

Sodium

Thinking of sodium as an essential nutrient may be a bit difficult considering the number of reports out there preaching the dangers of high levels of this mineral. Still, we need between 1,500 and 2,300 milligrams per day to stay healthy. It aids in maintaining a proper balance of water and nutrients within our cells. It’s also important for conducting nerve impulses.

Potassium

Like sodium, potassium is an electrolyte. That means it works in tandem with sodium to sustain the right balance of fluids in our cells and effectively conduct electrical impulses in the body. It also fosters muscular contraction and relaxation. This goes a long way toward preventing muscle cramps and helps the heart function properly.

In addition to those benefits, potassium can help prevent the loss of other nutrients through the kidneys. Because of its ability to regulate fluid levels, it can reduce blood pressure and help lower the risk of cardiovascular issues. Since it contributes to heart health and adequate blood flow, it may also reduce the likelihood of a stroke.

Magnesium

Magnesium plays a key role in many biological functions. This mineral helps the body convert amino acids into much-needed proteins and aids in transforming other nutrients into energy. As is the case with sodium and potassium, it contributes to muscle and cardiovascular health as well as proper functioning of the nervous system.

Studies show that about 50 percent of people suffer from magnesium deficiencies. Not having enough of this mineral in your system can increase the risk of developing depression, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes. Those who fail to take in enough magnesium may also be more prone to muscle cramps and inflammation.

Iron

Mental clarity, improved energy levels, and stamina are largely dependent on adequate iron intake. This mineral also helps boost immunity and gastrointestinal health. Iron is essential for oxygenating the blood as well. In turn, it helps keep oxygen flowing to the organs to keep them healthy. Iron also helps regulate body temperature.

Calcium

You’re probably aware of how important calcium is for strong bones and teeth. Our muscles, organs, and nerves also require calcium to function properly. Calcium deficiencies can cause improper growth and development along with an increased risk of osteoporosis. This mineral also fosters healthy cholesterol levels and blood pressure. It helps improve the effectiveness and efficiency of other nutrients as well.

Bicarbonate

Tap and mineral water also contain bicarbonate. This mineral is an electrolyte like sodium and potassium, so it aids in regulating cellular fluid and electrical impulses. It also helps keep the blood from becoming too acidic or alkaline. Because of its ability to balance acidity levels, it can prevent muscle fatigue and soreness by reducing the amount of lactic acid that builds up in the muscles during exercise or exertion.

Getting Essential Minerals from Water

Our bodies can’t produce those minerals on their own. We must get them from outside sources, such as foods and supplements. Water that contains vital minerals is also helpful in maintaining optimal health. Distilled water doesn’t contain essential nutrients because of the harsh chemical treatments it undergoes during processing.

To market bottled water as mineral water, manufacturers are required to either draw their products from natural sources that infuse them with those minerals or add them during processing. Public water supplies add specific amounts of minerals after the decontamination process as well. If you’re concerned about your tap water having an overabundance of minerals or containing unexpected toxins, a Kinetico water softener system is an effective solution.

All Things Considered

Water and certain minerals are essential for survival. At the same time, water increases the bioavailability of the minerals we take in. Without adequate H₂O intake, we can’t effectively process minerals and other nutrients so our bodies can take advantage of them.

That being said, too much of a good thing can certainly be bad. Minerals are no exception. Consuming excess minerals can cause health issues and take a toll on the plumbing and certain appliances in your home. Having a water softener installed can help keep the minerals in your water at healthy, manageable levels while reducing the risk of contamination.